Union Budget: Women’s hostel in every district to boost higher education; SHE marts for sustainable income

Union Budget has placed special emphasis on women’s empowerment. The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced this on Sunday while outlining key initiatives of the Central government aimed at education and economic inclusion.

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One of the major highlights is the plan to establish women’s hostels in every district across the country, ensuring safer and more accessible accommodation for female students.

Special hostels will be developed for women pursuing higher education in advanced fields such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), helping them continue their higher studies without logistical or safety barriers. The ambitious move is expected to significantly improve female participation in technical and professional education.

In addition, the Central government has proposed the launch of ‘SHE marts’, a community-based retail initiative. These outlets will enable women entrepreneurs to directly access markets, strengthen product branding, and generate sustainable income. The initiative aims to create a supportive ecosystem where women-led enterprises can grow and become financially independent.

Together, these measures underline the government’s commitment to empowering women through education, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.

Worth mentioning, Minister Sitharaman tabled the Union Budget 2026-27 in the parliament earlier today. The highlights of the budget are as follows:

The first Budget prepared in Kartavya Bhawan, is inspired by 3 kartavyas.

First kartavya is to accelerate and sustain economic growth by enhancing productivity and competitiveness, and building resilience to volatile global dynamics.

Second kartavya is to fulfill aspirations of the people and build their capacity, making them strong partners in India’s path to prosperity.

Third kartavya, aligned with the vision of 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas', is to ensure that every family, community, region and sector has access to resources, amenities and opportunities for meaningful participation.